19 Sep Re-introduction of Post-Study Work visa

On 11 September 2019, the Home Office announced that international students who have successfully completed a degree in any subject, including Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) from a trusted UK university or higher education provider will be able to stay in the UK for a further 2 years to gain working experience.

The purpose of the new Graduate Route is to attract as always ‘the best and brightest’ global talent to the UK.

Alistair Jarvis, Chief Executive of Universities UK commented: ‘This is very positive news. Evidence shows that international students bring significant positive social outcomes to the UK as well as £26 billion in economic contributions, but for too long the lack of post-study work opportunities in the UK has put us at a competitive disadvantage in attracting those students.’

Over 450,000 international students are currently studying in UK universities, and almost two-thirds are from outside the EU. Under the current Immigration Rules, these non- EU students have only four months to transfer their Tier 4 (General) student visa to another type of visa, such as Tier 2 (General) visa following the ending of their academic course.

The introduction of a two-year post-study work visa will bring benefits to both students and employers alike with the ability to choose from a bigger pool of talented young graduates without the hefty cost of sponsoring them under the Tier 2 scheme. However, the new scheme will only be available to Tier 4 G students who will graduate in 2020.

Contact Our Immigration Team

For expert advice regarding any aspect of the UK visa application, please contact our immigration team on 0203 384 3075.

The content of this article is for general use and information only. Since each case should be prepared on its own merit and in light of the constant amendments to the Immigration Rules, it is important to note that the information provided must not be relied upon unless Migra & Co has either given written consent or has been officially engaged in relation to a specific immigration matter. As a result, Migra & Co will take no responsibility for any damage, cost or loss resulting from relying on the information contained in this article, blog and website.